After growing up in South Africa and Switzerland, Robert Sevim moved to Chicago at the age of 17 with a determination to continue his education. His determination tends to be a trait that stands out. In fact, it was actually a friend of his that noticed his work potential and encouraged him to look into real estate. Now, as executive vice president of Savills Studley Chicago office, Sevim is grateful that he did and he’s never looked back since.
His move to Chicago happened just after visiting the United States once. He went on to pursue his undergraduate studies and played tennis for Northwestern. Sevim never imagined settling long-term in the U.S., let alone establishing a life in a new country, but this quickly changed when he decided to pursue other opportunities.
He went on to work full time to earn his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School. Flash forward 20 years later, Sevim is proud to say that he’s established his own path in the U.S. and feels blessed to be living the American Dream.
“There is such a wonderfully open culture here, which has enabled me to raise a family, build an incredible network of friends, and has provided me an amazing launching pad for a successful career and fulfilling life,” he said.
Now as head of the Chicago office, Sevim takes on major responsibilities by running all of the operations, recruitment, training and development, research and marketing initiatives for the firm, in addition to his brokerage assignments.
Prior to joining the industry, he worked at Leo Burnett as an account executive for various Procter & Gamble brands. That’s when a friend in the industry suggested that his skill set would be well suited for commercial real estate and tenant representation.
“After further investigation, I decided it would be a good fit and made the transition into brokerage. It is safe to say that my friend was spot-on. I love this industry,” Sevim said.
What he likes about it is that every day offers new challenges and problems to solve. He added that there are few industries that are more dynamic or rewarding.
“I feel fortunate and inspired to work with a wide variety of businesses, which provides tremendous learning opportunities and personal growth,” he continued. “It’s rare to be in a career that allows you to engage on a day-to-day basis with the senior leaders of a wide spectrum of business types.”
He also said it’s thrilling to see how the role you have played in companies’ real estate decisions helps them in all aspects of their business, from recruiting retention and branding, to their overall corporate strategy.
And it’s clear what Sevim sees in Savills Studley.
He said there are two particular factors that really set the firm apart in the industry—the business structure, which solely focuses on the needs of the tenants, adding that the firm is fully committed to finding the best real estate solution for each unique space user; and the second is that although it is a large global company, it maintains the entrepreneurial mid-sized culture and spirit of the original Studley organization.
As for the industry, Sevim said Savills Studley has been seeing major consolidation amongst firms, both large and small, which has resulted in a lot of movement and change.
Another trend the firm has witnessed, he continued, is the growing role workplace strategy is playing in real estate decision making.
“It is no longer a follow up conversation, but top of mind for all business executives and one of the most important factors in identifying space needs and how to get maximum engagement out of the work environment,” he explained. “We are noticing that the need for high level flexibility is also growing, as the business environment continues to move more quickly and companies’ needs are shifting at a faster pace.”
Sevim recalled that one of his most memorable experiences in real estate was in his early 20s.
“I was being interviewed amongst competitors by the c-suite of a very large organization that was looking to hire an advisor on their headquarters relocation,” he said. “They ultimately made the decision to hire me. I remember like it was yesterday the feeling of invigoration I received that day. It truly gave me the confidence and empowerment I needed to reassure myself that I could make it in this profession and stand up to even the fiercest of competition. The sense of honor I felt to have been chosen among those smarter, older, more experienced, etc. revitalized me to continue my pursuit as a commercial real estate tenant advisor.”
It could’ve been that same determination his friend had seen that got him the position. But one thing is certain—Sevim is a believer in going after your goals and even shared a piece of advice for those new to the industry.
“There are no substitutes for hard work,” he said. “There are no short cuts. Make sure you’re doing it because you are passionate about it. As part of the profession, there is plenty of rejection, but those who have a strong enough constitution will find that the most rewarding times are when you are able to get up after every difficult moment and get back at it. And never to be forgotten, integrity is the key to long term success!”
When Sevim isn’t working, he’s playing tennis or traveling. He is also a huge “foodie,” mostly for French and Italian food. Cooking and trying interesting new restaurants and dishes are some of his favorite hobbies.
But above all, it’s his family that he loves spending time with.
“I can never get enough of spending time with my family, who constantly keep me busy entertained with Karate tournaments, soccer games, tennis matches, and arts and crafts (my daughter is a true girl),” he said.
This summer, Sevim and his family have planned a trip to South of France, and his children are looking forward to experiencing the local culture. They are enrolled at the Lycee Francais school, so they’re very immersed in French.
“My wife is even learning the language so that she can “keep up” with them!” He said.
